Most people upfront think of things like modelling and pageants as just judge contests. Only the prettiest win, or get jobs. Well I’m here to explain how the world of modelling and pageantry has changed my life, and for the better.

Its presumed that models or pageant girls are not intelligent or posses drive. Well let me tell you that is not the case. Almost all of the women I have met within these entertainment industries are motivated, passionate and intelligent women. Men as well in the modelling aspect. In example of myself, I happen to classify myself as a model and pageant girl but I also happen to be extremely academically gifted. I possess the drive to aim for intellectual success. My life goal is to become a lawyer, and possibly work within the entertainment industry or family law. And I’m not the only one! Many models and pageant girls are brilliant and successful. The current Miss Universe Canada Siera Bearchell, is studying to become a lawyer. It takes a lot of drive to work in these industries, we just also happen to use this drive to become successful in other markets.

I have grown and learned to love myself through the past year; I can certainly give credit to pageants and modelling for this growth. You would never catch me public speaking to a crowd, walking on stage with grace and confidence, or in front of a camera. I used to hide behind the camera. being the girl that took the pictures. Now I find joy in both! I got the chance to work with a variety of local photographers after winning photogenic at my first pageant Miss North Ontario. From their my career blossomed. I’ve now travelled to model and have had publications in Vogue Italia, Dark Beauty Magazine, and more.

Throughout this process I didn’t really understand the difficulty behind modelling. I thought it was basically standing in front of a camera and voila, you’re a model! Boy was I wrong. Being a model is extremely difficult. You need to practice, practice, practice. Like anything really! But their is a part of it that relies on genetics. The modelling industry can be strict especially in regards to height. I currently stand only 5’7 and this proposes a huge issue to agencies. It was hard at first to find someone willing to represent me, solely based on my height. Then I found Peggi Lepage my current Mother Agent who has given me even the chance to travel to Toronto for a week to model then possibly overseas work! Modelling has allowed me to build thick skin. I know what I offer so I don’t let the little things tear me apart. This is one more thing pageants and modelling have taught me, that if its meant to be its meant to be. All that matters is that I try my absolute hardest.

Being within these industries has given me many opportunities. A few days ago I got the chance to judge a modelling competition with MAS Acting Studios. I got to apply my knowledge of pageants and modelling to help choose a winner!

In all, pageants and modelling have helped me develop passion for life. I have become a powerful and confident young woman. This industry is Art and passion, not a beauty contest I can assure you that. I hope you can see with this that us pageant and models, are more then just pretty faces, but also that much of this growth of a being is thanks to pageants.

Hi! I'm Emma, Miss Teen North Ontario 2017

Emma is a determined and passionate young lady. She loves to explore new opportunities, that is how she found her love for the pageant industry. She entered her first pageant- Miss North Ontario Regional Canada- in 2017, and she was crowned that years Miss North Ontario. She is truly a friendly young lady, that hopes to spread her kindness to everyone. Emma wishes to one day have a career in nursing so she can bring joy to patients. Overall, Emma is a happy hard working girl and she is excited to see what the pageant world has in store for her!